Discover Turin’s historic shops and pharmacies

Discover Turin’s Historic Shops and Pharmacies for a 2-Hour Journey Through Time

This 2-hour guided tour in Turin, organized by Italia in Tour, offers an engaging look into the city’s oldest pharmacies, confectioneries, and historic cafés. The tour departs from Piazza della Consolata in front of the Bicerin, a renowned café, giving participants a chance to explore centuries-old establishments that tell stories of Turin’s commercial and cultural life. Led by licensed tour guides, this experience emphasizes family-friendly fun and learning about the city’s timeless atmosphere.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on hidden treasures—from preserved furnishings to recipes of yesteryear—perfect for anyone interested in history, tradition, and local culture. It’s a short but rich exploration that suits those curious about the old-world charm of Turin. With its walkable route, this tour is accessible and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past in just two hours.

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Key Points

• Duration: 2 hours walking tour in Turin’s historic center
• Led by licensed guides with over 10 years of experience in Italy
• Focus on historic shops, pharmacies, confectioneries, and cafés
• Family-friendly and designed to be both educational and fun
• Meeting point: Piazza della Consolata in front of Bicerin
• Accessible and flexible with free cancellation available

Starting Point at Piazza della Consolata and the Bicerin Café

The tour begins in front of the Bicerin, located at Piazza della Consolata, 10122 Turin. This well-known café acts as a natural gathering spot, setting the tone for a delightful walk through the city’s historic streets. The meeting point is easy to find thanks to its central location and is just a short walk from many of Turin’s main sights.

Participants are advised to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a timely start, especially since the tour begins promptly. The coordinates for the meeting point are 45.07634353637695, 7.679289817810059, making it simple to locate via GPS. The tour ends at Via XX Settembre 43, allowing easy access to local shops, cafés, and transportation options afterward.

Exploring Turin’s Ancient Pharmacies and Remedies

One of the main highlights of this tour is the visit to centuries-old pharmacies. These establishments preserve original furnishings that have withstood the tests of time, offering a peek into medicinal practices of the past. Participants learn about remedies from previous centuries and see the timeless interiors that continue to evoke a sense of history and tradition.

The experience offers a chance to understand how pharmacists of yesteryear compounded their remedies and how these practices influenced modern pharmacy. The preservation of original fixtures makes these shops more than just retail spaces—they are living museums that showcase Turin’s culinary and medicinal heritage.

Sweet Treats and Confectionery Traditions

Among the stops are confectioneries that share the story of Turin’s sweet delicacies. Visitors get to admire artisanal displays, revealing recipes and techniques that have been passed down through generations. These confectioneries are more than just shops; they are cultural landmarks that highlight the city’s love for sweets.

The tour emphasizes local specialties and the history of confectionery in Turin, showcasing timeless recipes that continue to delight visitors. Walking through these charming shops allows an appreciation of traditional craftsmanship and the sweet flavors that have become part of Turin’s identity.

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Historic Cafés and the Aroma of Coffee

The tour also features visits to timeless cafés, where the aroma of coffee mingles with history and tradition. These cafés have preserved their original furnishings and continue to serve as social hubs for locals and visitors alike. They tell stories of Turin’s café culture, which has been thriving for centuries.

The Bicerin, after which the tour starts, is a prime example of a historic café that embodies the city’s refined atmosphere. The guide explains the significance of such cafés in Turin’s social life, connecting past and present through the preservation of interiors and recipes.

The Expertise of Licensed Tour Guides

All aspects of the tour are led by licensed guides with over 10 years of experience organizing guided walks across Italy. Their knowledge ensures that visitors receive accurate, engaging insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of each location.

The guides are trained to make the experience family-friendly and educational, making complex stories accessible and fun. Their passion and expertise help to bring each site to life, turning a simple walk into a memorable learning experience.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This tour is designed to be wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs. It is an outdoor walk through Turin’s historic streets, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The group size is manageable, allowing for personalized attention from the guide.

Participants can opt for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility to plan their trip. The option to reserve now and pay later adds convenience, making it easier to fit this experience into travel plans.

Walkable Route Through Turin’s Historic Center

Starting at Piazza della Consolata, the tour winds through Turin’s bustling historic streets, allowing an intimate look at architectural gems and quaint shopfronts. The route is designed to highlight hidden corners and well-preserved interiors that reveal the city’s grand past.

The walk concludes at Via XX Settembre 43, a lively street known for shopping and local cafés. This ending point provides an opportunity for further exploration, whether to continue shopping, enjoy a coffee, or visit nearby attractions.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Turin’s Offerings

What sets this experience apart is its focus on hidden shops and pharmacies that are often overlooked by casual visitors. The emphasis on original furnishings and historic recipes offers a genuine sense of Turin’s cultural and commercial history.

The family-friendly approach and expert guides make it suitable for a wide audience, from history buffs to curious children. Its short duration makes it an ideal way to experience a slice of Turin’s past without requiring a full day.

The Sum Up: Perfect for History Enthusiasts and Curious Travelers

This 2-hour tour provides a compact, well-curated look into Turin’s historic shops and pharmacies. Its focus on preserved interiors and local traditions makes it particularly appealing for visitors interested in the city’s cultural fabric.

While it offers a rich narrative within a short timeframe, those seeking a comprehensive tour of all Turin’s attractions might want to combine this with other experiences. However, for a focused visit into local commerce, medicinal lore, and confectionery, this tour delivers authentic insights and memorable sights.

The tour is well-rated—earning a perfect 5 out of 5—and is a recommendation for anyone eager to discover the lesser-known stories of Turin in a friendly, engaging setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 2 hours, walking through Turin’s historic center.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of the Bicerin café at Piazza della Consolata.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and designed to be engaging and educational for all ages.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What languages are the guides speaking?
The tour is led by live guides speaking in Italian.

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